An amazing collection of personal stories, memories and photographs of RAF Witchford during WWII

"He rotated the turret, flipped open the doors and in pain and desperation fell backwards into the night" - without a parachute!

Welcome to RAF Witchford under Bomber Command during WWII: from its beginnings in 1943 to the terrible statistics of lives and planes lost by 115, 195 and 196 Squadrons whilst on raids over enemy territory.

There are lucky escapes - Nicholas Alkemade who baled out of a stricken bomber without a parachute and survived. There is tragedy when, just about to land safely back home, Lancasters are shot down by a marauding Messerschmidt ME 410 in the Intruder Incident. Decades later, their twisted wreckage is excavated and becomes part of a lifetime project to rediscover the people who served - and the families that remember them to this day.

This is an incredible collection of personal stories, memories and photgraphs from 1943 onwards. It gives a real insight into life on a wartime airfield and you get to know many of the young airmen and women who lived an worked there.

The book is dedicated to all those who lost their lives during World War II, especially those from RAF Witchford and RAF Mepal and is linked to the Witchford Display of Memorabilia.

About the authors:

Barry Aldridge was moved to find out more about the brave men and women stationed at RAF Witchford and RAF Mepal when he got involved with organising the War Years exhibition in Ely Museum. His passion led to the excavation of the Lancaster bomber at Coveney. And so started a journey of research, amazing discoveries and new friendships around the world. Sadly, Barry became too unwell to complete the book, but his wife, Sue took over the flame to complete his absorbing account of local history.

Latest News:

10th May 2014: Memories of RAF Witchford wins a Local History Book Award 2014. Mike Petty from The Cambridgeshire Association for Local History awarded the prize to Barry, Sue and Beth for their outstanding contribution to local history. Sue and Beth were both surprised and delighted to receive the award.